2015 Frankfurt Motor Show LIVE: Audi S8 Plus

Audi has been busy presenting the A4 midsize model to the world, but the 2015 IAA Frankfurt motor show was also home to the worldwide public debut of the monstrous A8 Plus that will unleash 605 PS.

The Ingolstadt-based automaker, the second largest premium brand in the world, has been building up its resources for the development of the next generation flagship A8 limousine and the new S8 Plus could be the model’s swan song in its current iteration. The range-topping new model is set to take the title of the most powerful A8 version ever produced and will be differenced in terms of design from the “mundane” S8 by employing a discrete spoiler lip at the back available either in the body color or carbon fiber. At the front the modifications include the single-frame grille and double bars painted in gloss black, with a matte treatment to the side air inlets and radiator screen. The headlights are of course equipped with the proprietary Matrix LED technology and also feature dynamic turn signals.

The interior is discretely adorned with sporty elements such as the black full-leather with contrasting red stitching trim, the piano black center console and stainless steel cover pedals and footrest. There’s also ambient lighting, a convenience key with sensor locking for the luggage compartment, Alcantara package or power operated doors.

Naturally the most important features lies under the hood, where the 4.0 TFSI engine has been upgraded to churn out a massive 605 PS (445 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque (with 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) in overboost mode). The difference in power to the S8 is of 85 PS and translates into an acceleration from not to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.8 seconds, with the maximum speed electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.3 mph) – an optional extra will unleash the actual top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph). The engine improvements include a modified engine control with speed and charge pressure boost or updated exhaust valves and inner geometry modification of the turbocharger for improved efficiency. The engine is sending its impressive power to the all-wheel drive Quattro system via an eight-speed tiptronic automatic gearbox.